| Item | Loan Period |
|---|---|
| All DVDs | 3 Days |
| Adult New books (Fiction, Non-fiction & Biographies) | 14 Days |
| Audiobooks | 14 Days |
| Children’s and young adult books | 28 Days |
| Large print books | 28 Days |
| Adult fiction, non-fiction, and biographies not shelved in new books area | 28 Days |
| Children’s puppets and puzzles | Non-circulating |
| Magazines | Non-circulating |
| Newspapers | Non-circulating |
The Board of Trustees has adopted a Library Code of Conduct to ensure a comfortable and safe environment for all patrons and library personnel. This policy is intended to provide clear and reasonable rules to guide patron behavior while in the library and on library premises. The library strives to provide an atmosphere conducive to the safe and orderly use of the facility and requests the cooperation of patrons in refraining from behavior that disrupts library services.
Parents or guardians, not the library personnel, are responsible for the safety, care, and supervision of their children at the library. For the purposes of this policy, any authorized person performing a task on the behalf of the library is considered a staff member. All persons must leave the library premises by closing time, when evacuation of the building is necessary, or at any time when requested to do so by library personnel.
The Board subscribes to Article IV of the American Library Association Library Bill of Rights, which states that “library facilities should be made available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals requesting their use.”
Unacceptable behavior includes actions in the library or on library premises that interfere with the use of the library by others, creates a risk of injury to oneself or others, inhibits the work of library staff, disrupts the peaceful enjoyment of the library or creates a risk of damage to library, personal or staff property. For those reasons the Library Code of Conduct is to be observed by everyone in the building or on library grounds.
Prohibited Conduct
Engaging in conduct that disrupts or interferes with the normal operation of the Library, or that disturbs Library visitors or staff, is not permitted. The following conduct is prohibited at the Library:
- Disregarding instructions given by Library staff.
- Using obscene, abusive, or threatening language or gestures.
- Harassment or threatening behavior, bullying or unwanted physical contact
- Engaging in sexual conduct or lewd behavior.
- Using, possessing, selling, or appearing under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs or controlled substances.
- Smoking, chewing, and using other tobacco products, including vaping and electronic cigarettes and other inhalants.
- Damaging, defacing, or misusing any Library materials or property. This includes disabling or unplugging Library equipment, changing hardware or software, or using a Library computer for purposes not designated by the Library.
- Trespassing on Library premises.
- Selling any goods or services; soliciting, petitioning, or canvassing.
- Distributing or displaying pamphlets, surveys, flyers, signs, or posters on Library premises, unless approved in advance by the Library Director.
- Visitors must wear clothing, including shirts and shoes, in the Library. Swimwear is not permitted in the Library.
- Removing or not wearing footwear in the Library
- Sleeping in the Library.
- Making unreasonable use of the public restrooms, including laundering clothes, shaving, bathing, washing hair and brushing teeth.
- Bringing Library property into restrooms.
- Making unreasonable noise. This includes loud talking, shouting, using electronic devices (with or without headphones) at a volume that disturbs others, uncontrolled or repeated ringing of electronic devices, and cell phone conversations. Please silence all cell phones.
- Eating in the Library
- No drinking in the young adult and children’s rooms. Non-alcoholic beverages may be consumed in the adult room in closed containers with the exception of those areas that are in proximity to the library’s computers.
- Unsupervised visitors ages 17 and under are prohibited to utilize the elevator, unless disabled or wheelchair bound.
- Monopolizing Library space, equipment or outlets to the exclusion of others.
- Obstructing aisles, stairways, or reading areas with personal belongings including when charging personal devices. This includes actions that block access or exits to Library premises or create safety hazards.
- Bringing in animals, unless it is a service animal assisting a person with a disability or for a library-approved event.
- Running, skipping, jumping, pushing, and shoving.
- Cycling, rollerblading, roller skating, skateboarding, any wheeled and/or motorized equipment such as electric scooter, scooter, segway or wheeled shoe use in the library or on library premises. They are not allowed inside the Library.
- Individuals with mobility impairments are permitted to use wheelchairs, walkers, and other appropriate mobility aids on Library premises.
- Moving furniture or equipment without the consent of library personnel or use of furniture or equipment in any manner inconsistent with the customary use thereof and that may result in damage.
- Library telephones may not be used by library patrons except in the case of an emergency. A staff member will place a telephone call using a library phone for patrons in the case of an emergency.
- Grades 8 and under are to utilize the Children’s room and the children’s computers.
- Ages 8 and under will utilize the Picture Book Section and ages 9 through middle school will utilize the Junior Room section
- Grades 9 and up are to utilize the Adult room and the adult computers.
Enforcement
The Board of Trustees authorizes library personnel to suspend the library privileges for those whose behavior prevents or interferes with the effective use of the library by others.
Failure to comply with the Library Code of Conduct may result in a warning, restriction, or termination of Library privileges, and/or immediate removal from the Library. Individuals who refuse to leave after a request by Library staff may be barred from visiting the Library in the future.
Any person not abiding by these rules will be given a verbal notification by a member of the library staff. A second occurrence on the same day may result in the library patron being asked to leave the library. Habitual offenders may, at the discretion of the Board of Trustees, have their library privileges suspended and/or revoked. Anyone whose privileges have been revoked may have the decision reviewed by the Director. Further appeals may be taken, upon prior written request, to the Library Board of Trustees.
Unattended Children Policy & Procedures
The Kenilworth Public Library is dedicated to providing a safe and welcoming environment for families and children. While children of all ages are welcome and encouraged to use the library’s materials, programs and services, parents and caregivers must be aware that the library is an open, public building and the well-being and safety of young children left alone or unsupervised is a serious concern.
It is for the safety of each child that the library has adopted the Unattended Children Policy. An unattended minor may be defined as a child unable to care for himself/herself when left in the library without a parent or responsible adult within sight or sound range, any child left unattended for long periods of time, or any child not picked up at closing time. The responsibility for the safety and behavior of children in the library always rests with the parent or caregiver and not with the library staff.
The Unattended Children Policy
- Children ages 9 and under must be supervised at all times by a parent or caregiver (age 13 or older).
- Middle School & High School aged children are welcome to use the library unattended provided they comply with the library’s Code of Conduct, which includes, but is not limited to, the prohibition of food, foul language, disruptive cell phone usage, horseplay and loitering. Those children using the library unaccompanied are still the legal responsibility of their parents.
- A child 9 and under with no means of getting home when the library closes is considered a stranded minor.
- Parents/caregivers are responsible for being aware of the library’s hours of operation if leaving their child unaccompanied at the library.
- Library personnel will not physically prevent a child from leaving the library, assume responsibility for a child, accompany or transport an unrelated child off library premises.
Procedures
If the library is closing due to inclement weather or other emergency, and an unattended minor is left at the library without transportation home, the library staff will allow the child to call for a ride home using a library phone. At all regular or early closings, if a child is unable to contact a parent, guardian, or caregiver, the Kenilworth Police will be contacted and the child will be placed in their care. Library staff will remain no longer than 15 minutes after closing.
If a child is found without a parent or caregiver during library hours, the following procedures will be followed:
- Staff will try to locate the parent or caregiver in the library and provide an Unattended Children Policy to the parent or caregiver.
- Staff will call the Kenilworth Police to pick up the child if the parent or caregiver cannot be located within the library. Staff will notify the Director of the situation when police are called.
- Staff will encourage an unattended child to contact the parent or guardian if it is within 15 minutes of closing time. If a parent or caregiver cannot be reached or does not arrive upon closing, the library will call the Kenilworth Police to pick up the child. Staff will notify the Director that police have been called.
- Two staff members will remain with the child until the parent/caregiver or police arrive.
- A sign will be left on the library door stating “Unattended child is in the custody of the Kenilworth Police, 567 Boulevard, Kenilworth, NJ 07033, (908) 276-1700,” once the child is in the care of the police. The child’s identity will not be stated on the sign.
- Under no circumstances will library staff provide transportation to stranded children or other patrons.
VIOLATION OF THE UNATTENDED CHILDREN POLICY MAY RESULT IN SUSPENSION OF LIBRARY PRIVILEGES FOR THE FAMILY.
Approved and adopted by The Kenilworth Public Library Board of Trustees February 9, 2023
Overdue Items
- A “lost item” notice will be sent for any patrons who are more than 60 days overdue. Replacement fee for a lost item is the cost of the item plus a $5.00 reprocessing fee. Borrowing privileges will be suspended for any patron with one or more items which are more than 30 days overdue or for any patron who has an outstanding fine balance of $5.00 or more.
- The library reserves the right to refer the collection of overdue library materials to a collection agency. An additional fee will be charged for any patron who is referred to a collection agency.
Replacement Items
- Replacement charges will be assessed when an item has been damaged beyond the point of easy repair. The charge will be the actual cost of the item that’s listed in the ILS.
- In all cases a $5.00 reprocessing fee is added to the cost of the item.
Other Fees
- Library patrons will be assessed a charge for any bank fees charged to the library for checks returned for insufficient funds.
- Printing and photocopying costs $0.25 per page for black & white copy, $.50 per page for color copy.
Kenilworth Residents
Library cards are issued to all Kenilworth residents who provide proof of residency in the form of a valid drivers license, mortgage bill, rent receipt, phone or utility bill, or other document indicating both the person’s name and address. In the case of children under 18, a parent or legal guardian must accompany the child to the library and provide proof of residency. A child’s parent or legal guardian is responsible for all items checked out on their child’s card. Library cards are issued for a three year period and proof of residency will be verified at time of renewal.
Non-residents
People who are not residents of Kenilworth are also eligible for borrowing privileges (for physical materials only at our Library) if they are employed or attend school in Kenilworth. Non-residents may not have access to the Library’s digital resources. Proof of employment or school enrollment must be presented at the time of registration. A parent or legal guardian must accompany the child to the library and provide proof of school enrollment for children under the age of 18.
People who reside in any of the municipalities that participate in the Middlesex Union Reciprocal Associated Libraries (M.U.R.A.L.) are also eligible to register for borrowing privileges. Participating communities include: Berkeley Heights, Bound Brook, Carteret, Clark, Cranbury, Cranford, Dunellen, Edison, Elizabeth, Fanwood, Garwood, Highland Park, Hillside, Jamesburg, Linden, Long Branch, and New Province, North Brunswick, Old Bridge, Perth Amboy, Plainfield, Rahway, Roselle, Roselle Park, Sayreville, Scotch Plains, Somerville, South Amboy, South Brunswick, South Plainfield, South River, Spotswood, Springfield, Union, and Westfield. Anyone registering at the Kenilworth Public Library through the M.U.R.A.L. agreement must have a library card and be in good standing at their home library.
People who do not fall into any of the above categories may purchase a Kenilworth library card at a cost of $70.00 per year. All categories of non-resident borrowing privileges are issued for a one year period and proof of eligibility must be presented at the time of renewal.
People wishing to check out library materials must present their library card upon approaching the circulation desk. Materials will not be checked out without either a library card or other valid form of identification.
The fee for a lost library card is $1.00.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
The filming, taking of photographs, videos or audio must not interfere with anyone’s safety, or enjoyable or productive use of the library and its facilities.
Reference to “photograph” in this policy shall include filming or video. The photographer or person taking video or filming may not record patrons unless they have received written approval from those patrons.
Minors (under age 18) may not be photographed, videotaped, or filmed without the consent of a parent or guardian, except by library staff during library-sponsored programs and except incidentally in group or crowd photos.
Photographing, filming, or videotaping is prohibited in the nonpublic areas of the library including but not limited to administrative and staff areas, and restrooms.
The use of tripods, stand-alone lighting equipment and microphones or other accessories is not permitted without the permission of the Library Director.
Anyone filming or taking photographs or videos shall not, harass, intimidate, or threaten a patron or staff member, interfere with library operations, cause a disruption or obstruct library aisles, walkways, stairwells, doors, exits, or service desks.
Any persons filming or photographing or taking videos on library premises have sole responsibility for gaining all necessary releases and permissions from persons who are filmed or photographed or the subject of videos.
The library undertakes no responsibility for obtaining
these releases or permissions.
Any consent to photograph, videotape, or to film granted by the library pursuant to this policy may be revoked at any time.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE LIBRARY
The Kenilworth Public Library frequently engages in filming and photography in the library and
at library sponsored programs and events for purposes of documenting its activities, security
and safety, and publicity and promotional purposes, including on its website and social media.
Library staff will make every effort to notify members of the public when filming is taking place.
Please notify a library staff member if you do not want to be photographed or recorded.
NEWS MEDIA PHOTOGRAPHY AND RECORDING
The library allows news media photographers and reporters who are doing stories or projects that directly involve the library and its programs to photograph, videotape, or film in the library. The library requires that news media contact the Library Director prior to any planned filming, photography or videotaping. The news media must adhere to library policy. A representative of the library must accompany the media for all photographing, filming, or recording. Obtaining a complete consent form becomes the responsibility of the media representative, who maintains all liability.
COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHY AND RECORDING
In general, the library does not permit commercial photography on library property. This includes, but is not limited to, using the library as a stage set for model photography, engagement or wedding photography, product photography, or as a recording for tv or online advertising regardless of whether goods or services relate to the library. The Director may grant exceptions to this policy upon written request of the commercial photographer, provided at least two weeks in advance, which request must include specifics of the proposed filming project and provide insurance coverage acceptable to the library naming the library as an insured.
PHOTOGRAPHY AND RECORDING BY PROGRAM PARTNERS
Local area organizations that regularly partner with the library, on library events, may film or take photographs during these events. If one of the library’s partner organizations desires to film an event that is scheduled to take place within the library, that partner must request permission to film or photograph, at least two weeks in advance, to the Director and adhere to the policy that applies to all filming in the library.
PHOTOGRAPHY AND RECORDINGS BY GROUPS RESERVING LIBRARY MEETING
ROOM SPACE FOR NON-LIBRARY EVENTS
Groups meeting in the library’s facilities may arrange for photography or filming or videos during their event. Photography, filming, and videos for such events is restricted to the space reserved by the group, may not take place in other areas of the library and must comply with library policy.
USE OF LIBRARY’S MARK
No photographs, filming, or video that includes the library’s mark or name will be used for any commercial purpose, or made publicly available without the Director’s written consent.
PHOTOGRAPHY AND RECORDINGS AT MEETINGS SUBJECT TO OPMA
Meetings subject to New Jersey’s Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) which take place in the library may be filmed, photographed, or videotaped without library permission, provided that filming does not disrupt the business of the meeting nor physically interfere with the conduct of the meeting or the public’s access to the meeting and shall comply with OPRAs.
ENFORCEMENT
The Board of Trustees authorizes library personnel to suspend the library privileges for those whose behavior prevents or interferes with the effective use of the library by others. Failure to comply with the Photography, Filming, and Video Policy may result in a warning, restriction, or termination of Library privileges, and/or immediate removal from the Library. Individuals who refuse to leave after a request by Library staff may be barred from visiting the Library in the future.
Any person not abiding by these rules will be given a verbal notification by a member of the library staff. A second occurrence on the same day may result in the library patron being asked to leave the library. Habitual offenders may, at the discretion of the Board of Trustees, have their library privileges suspended and/or revoked. Anyone whose privileges have been revoked may have the decision reviewed by the Director. Further appeals may be taken, upon prior written request, to the Library Board of Trustees.
Approved and adopted by The Kenilworth Public Library Board of Trustees on February 8, 2024.
Purpose
Computer and internet access is offered in support of the Library’s mission, which is to provide
information and resources to serve the needs of the Borough of Kenilworth residents. Kenilworth Public Library (KPL) provides computer access to catalogs, databases, and internet to all patrons. Public access computers are available to patrons subject to the limitations of space, equipment, time, personnel, and other resources.
Resources Available via the Internet and Other Electronic Information Networks
Most resources available via the Internet and other electronic information networks are “global” resources. KPL provides a filtered access network on its computers. However, KPL does not and cannot control the information content available through global resources such as information obtained from outside sources via the Internet. Resources from electronic information networks enhance and supplement resources that are available locally within a library. Library users must be aware that KPL does not exercise control over information obtained via electronic information networks and must keep in mind the following information when evaluating information obtained via these sources:
- Information obtained via the electronic information network resources may or may not be reliable and may or may not be obtained from a reliable source, may or may not be accurate and may not be up to date.
- Links to information on the electronic information network resources may not always be valid, and particular information sites on the Internet may sometimes be unavailable and this unavailability often occurs unpredictably.
- Certain information obtained via the electronic information network resources may be considered controversial, offensive, obscene or pornographic by some library patrons. KPL urges all patrons of any age to be informed and carefully evaluate information obtained. Library staff may be available to assist patrons, but are unable to provide definitive analysis of any particular source. Parents or legal guardians, not Library staff, are solely responsible for deciding which Internet resources are appropriate for their children.
Responsibility of Patrons
KPL cannot assure privacy or system security and is not responsible for damages, indirect or direct, arising from a library patron’s use of KPL’s electronic resources. Patrons are urged to respect the sensibilities of others that may find your access reasonably offensive when viewed from a distance. Privacy in accessing and using the computers or electronic networks in the
library is not guaranteed. The “Patron Behavior Policy” applies to the behavior of patrons using the library’s electronic information networks. Access, use or dissemination of information via the electronic information networks in the library is the responsibility of the patron.
Privacy of User Information
KPL avoids collecting or maintaining records that could compromise the privacy of users. Nevertheless, users must also exercise caution when using the Internet to avoid unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identifiable information. Parents should caution their children that personal information should not be shared on the Internet. KPL does not intentionally save information on the public access computers. All information should be erased when the user ends a computer session and/or the computer is restarted.
Use of Equipment and Networks
KPL has developed the following rules regarding use of public computers. Those found in violation of Library policy are subject to immediate suspension of computer privileges, possible barring from the Library and/or criminal charges. KPL requires that Library patrons using the network provided do so within the guidelines of acceptable use. The following activities are unacceptable:
- Engage in any activity that is harassing or defamatory. Bullying is strictly prohibited;
- Destruction of, damage to, or unauthorized use of the Library’s computer equipment software, network security procedures, or any activities which interfere with or disrupt network users, services or equipment;
- Use of electronic information networks in any way which violates the Federal, State, or local law inclusive of intellectual property laws;
- Use of electronic information networks in any way which violates license and payment agreements between KPL and network or database providers;
- Unauthorized duplication of copy protected software or violation of software license agreements;
- Add, delete, modify or tamper with the installed hardware or software.
- Violation of system security;
- Behaving in a manner which is disruptive to other users, including, but not limited to overuse of computer equipment or bandwidth which serves to deny access to other users;
- Use Library computers to access material(s) that is legally defined as obscene, child pornography, or harmful to minors.
- Invade the privacy of others by misrepresenting oneself as another user or attempting to modify or gain access to files, passwords or data belonging to others.
- Deliberately propagate computer worms, viruses or other malicious content on or through the Library’s network.
- Attempt to circumvent the Library’s reservation software and established policies in any
- way. Illegal acts involving library computers will subject the patron to prosecution by local, state or federal authorities. Patron Assistance and Instruction Library staff may provide assistance to patrons in the use of electronic information networks as time and staff knowledge permits. It may not be possible for staff to evaluate or judge the quality or merits of sites that the patron may access. Rules and Procedures
- Users must conform to the policies stated here, Kenilworth Public Library’s Code of Conduct Policy when using Library computers.
- Users are expected to know computer basics, including the use of a mouse and keyboard. All computers offer access to the Internet and Microsoft Office software. Adults and young adults (9th grade and up) can access the public computers on the main floor and the computer use is limited to two hours of computer time per day. All ages up to 8th grade can access the public computers in the Children’s room in the lower level and the computer use is limited to one hour of computer time per day. The public computers in the Children’s room are to be used by young patrons.
- On the main floor, patrons may reserve a public computer by logging in with their valid library card number and pin number. In the Children’s room, young patrons may reserve a public computer by filling out a computer sign-in sheet located in the Children’s Department Office for children. Computer reservations are on a first come, first served, basis.
- Library cards are non-transferable. Users must use their own library card to register for an assigned session. The use of a friend or family member’s library card is not permitted and may result in the suspension of computer privileges.
- Users are required to use headphones for listening to any resource with an audio component.
- Internet and database users must perform their own searches;
- Computer users should bring personal storage devices to save their work. KPL is not responsible for loss of data that may occur when saving documents or for storage devices left behind by computer users.
- Printing fees are available in black and white and in color:
- Black and white print jobs are .25 cents per page and .50 cents per page for double-sided paper.
- Color print jobs are .50 cents per page and $1.00 per page for double-side paper.
- Only paper provided by the Library is to be used in the Library printer.
- The last computer session of the day ends 15 minutes before The Library closes.
- The Kenilworth Public Library is not responsible for time or data lost due to computer failure.
- Public computers on the main floor:
- Users may leave an unattended computer “locked,” however, your session timwill continue in lock mode.
- If the computer is left inactive, a warning will pop up on the screen and the user is to follow the prompt message. If the user does not comply, then the computer will shut down which may result in the loss of your work.
- Three on-screen warnings will appear prior to the end of your computer session. Failure to comply with these warnings will result in the loss of your work.
- At the end of each session, patrons must leave the computer promptly so it can be made available to the next user.
Wireless Access
KPL provides a filtered/unsecured wireless access network for users with wireless electronic devices. This service is not to be used as a permanent connection. Wireless access is less secure than wired access, and signal strength may vary in the building. By choosing to use this free wireless access, you agree to abide by this policy that prohibits abusive or illegal activity while using this access. Most wireless electronic devices will be compatible with the Library’s access points. However, the Library cannot guarantee that a personal device user’s hardware will work with the Library’s wireless access network. If a user experiences problems connecting to a wireless access point, Library staff will verify that the Library’s wireless access network is operational, but Library staff are not trained to configure or troubleshoot wireless electronic devices. Personal device users should refer to their owner’s manual or other support services offered by their device manufacturer.
The Library’s wireless access network provides no security between the access points and your electronic device(s); therefore, someone in the Library vicinity, inside or outside, can potentially capture information sent to or from your device. The Library cautions wireless users against transmitting credit card information, passwords and any other sensitive information while using
any wireless access point. All wireless access users should have up-to-date virus protection on
their wireless electronic devices and take appropriate precautions when using this service. Use of the KPL wireless access network is entirely at the risk of the user. The Library assumes no responsibility for the safety of equipment or device configurations, security, or data files resulting from connection to the Library’s wireless access network or the Internet, or liability for any consequent damage to hardware, software or data.
Guidelines on Access to Information
The Kenilworth Public Library is guided by the following American Library Association
statements on access to information:
- The Library Bill of Rights
- Freedom to Read Statement
- Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights: Free Access to Libraries for Minors and Access to Electronic Services and Resources.
Approved and adopted by The Kenilworth Public Library Board of Trustees on March 15, 2018.
Updated and approved by the Kenilworth Public Library Board of Trustees on April 11, 2024.
RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION’S
LIBRARY BILL OF RIGHTS, FREEDOM TO READ STATEMENT AND DECLARING
THE KENILWORTH PUBLIC LIBRARY AS A BOOK SANCTUARY
WHEREAS, the freedom to read is a human right, constitutionally protected by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, and individuals have the right to free inquiry and the equally important right to form their own opinions; and
WHEREAS, Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that ‘‘everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers’’; and
WHEREAS, books do not require readers to agree with topics or themes but instead allow readers to explore and engage with differing perspectives to form and inform their own views; and
WHEREAS, over the last several years, there has been a significant increase in censorship activities in the United States resulting in books being removed from library shelves and schools; and
WHEREAS, book bans often seek to impose restrictions on students and families based on the political, ideological, or cultural preferences of the individuals calling for book bans; and
WHEREAS, book bans have multifaceted, harmful consequences on—
(A) students who have a right to access a diverse range of stories and perspectives;
(B) students from historically marginalized backgrounds, whose communities are often underrepresented in literature;
(C) educators and librarians who are operating in some states in an increasingly punitive and surveillance-oriented environment, which has a chilling effect on teaching and learning;
(D) the authors whose works are being targeted; and
(E) parents who want to raise children who can attend schools and use libraries, which remain open to and encourage curiosity, discovery, and the freedom to read; and
WHEREAS, classic and award-winning literature and books, which have been part of school curricula for decades, have been challenged, removed from libraries pending review, or outright banned from schools; and
WHEREAS, books, particularly those written by and about outsiders, newcomers, and people from
marginalized backgrounds, are facing a heightened risk of being banned; and
WHEREAS, numerous books referring to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and more
(“LGBTQ+”) themes or with LGBTQ+ characters have been banned in the United States this year,
including children’s books, which recognize the equal humanity and dignity of all persons, despite our differences; and
WHEREAS, numerous books, both fiction and nonfiction, with protagonists of color or prominent
secondary characters of color have been banned in some states in the United States, particularly in recent years; and
WHEREAS, numerous bills have been introduced in states across the country that would restrict books and curricula on race and gender in schools; and
WHEREAS, the Kenilworth Public Library Board of Trustees declare their opposition to the banning of books in any form; and
WHEREAS, the Kenilworth Public Library’s adoption of the Library Bill of Rights and supports the
freedom to read, including the adoption of the American Library Association’s Freedom to Read Statement; and
WHEREAS, the Kenilworth Public Library has a materials selection process that is fair, deliberative,
equitable, and accessible to the public, as set forth in its “Materials Selection Policy” adopted by the Library Board of Trustees on March 9, 2023.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Kenilworth Public Library Board of Trustees as follows:
- Adoption of American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights – The Kenilworth Public Library Board of Trustees supports and adopts the American Library Association’s “Library Bill of Rights,” attached hereto and incorporated by reference in this Resolution; and
- Adoption of American Library Association’s Freedom to Read Statement – The Kenilworth Public Library Board of Trustees supports and adopts the American Library Association’s “Freedom to Read Statement,” attached hereto and incorporated by reference into this Resolution; and
- Book Sanctuary Declaration – The Kenilworth Public Library Board of Trustees declares that the Kenilworth Public Library is a book sanctuary. As a book sanctuary, the Library shall be a place where: (1) people can borrow and read challenged books; (2) endangered books are accessible to everyone; (3) we host book talks, story times, and other events about banned and challenged books; and (4) people can be educated about the history of book banning and burning.
- Book Sanctuary Actions – The Kenilworth Public Library calls upon community members to do the following: (1) host and join in-person or virtual banned book clubs and encourage critical discussion of censored stories, starting with Black, Indigenous, People of Color (“BIPOC”) and LGBTQ+ stories that are most often challenged; (2) collect and protect endangered books; (3) lend endangered books to friends and neighbors; (4) use local Little Free Libraries as book sanctuaries, adding endangered books as a way to support the freedom to read; (5) host storytimes with inclusive characters that reflect the diversity of our world; and (6) amplify individual voices on social media with #TheBookSanctuary.
Adopted and approved by the Kenilworth Free Public Library Board of Trustees on May 9, 2024.
- No child under the age of ten shall be permitted in the library unless accompanied by a parent, guardian, or responsible person who shall be at least thirteen years of age.
- Children under the age of ten shall be under the direct supervision of the person responsible for their behavior while in the library.
- If a child is left unattended at the library at closing time and the library staff is unable to locate a parent or other responsible adult, the library staff may, at their discretion, notify the Kenilworth Police Department and request that the child be brought to the police headquarters to await pick-up.
